Inistioge lies on the banks of the River Nore. The ten-arch rubble-stone road bridge was built in the classical style in 1763 and is a prominent landmark in the village. The river, architectural history and trails through Inistioge offer different ways to shape your stay.
Bridge, Churches and History
The Church of Ireland Church of Saint Mary and the Roman Catholic Saint Columcille’s stand on the grounds of the early 13th-century Augustinian Priory of Saints Mary and Columba. Together, they form a church quarter in the village. Parts of the 13th-century Augustinian Priory have survived.
St. Columbkille’s Holy Well lies to the northeast of Inistioge. Its entrance is elaborately designed and includes several carved stone slabs from the 16th century, probably from the priory. The mausoleum of Mary Tighe of Woodstock House is in the graveyard behind the churches.
If you are interested in local history, follow the Inistioge Heritage Trail through the village to learn about its past. For a different perspective, visit the Mermaid Gallery: its wide-ranging selection includes paintings by Irish and international artists, limited-edition prints and gifts. The selection may change.
Trails by the Water and Through the Village
The Inistioge-Thomastown Trail starts at the village square and follows the riverbank towards Thomastown. The Woodstock Loop and Ladies Loop are also options for a circular walk. Both are moderate; their listed walking times and distances make it easier to compare how much time you will need: the Woodstock Loop is 4.5 kilometres long and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, while the Ladies Loop is 3 kilometres long and takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Route details may be revised, so check them before setting out.
You can also spot birds and animals while walking around Inistioge. A wildlife guide can help you identify the species you see. This lets you combine a visit to the village with a closer look at its wildlife, without needing to take another circular route.
The River Nore and Woodstock Gardens
The River Nore is navigable by boat as far as the slipway at Inistioge. Boat trips to Inistioge must take place at high tide because of the tides. Kilkenny Eco Tours offers trips from Inistioge; depending on the tour, the trip starts at the slipway. As the operator’s arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the latest tour details in advance.
During the fishing season, the stretch of the River Nore between Inistioge and Thomastown is especially popular for salmon fishing. Fishing on the river is regulated and requires a licence, available from O’Donnell’s pub. Check the licence information before your trip.
Nearby, Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum sit above the River Nore valley, overlooking Inistioge. The gardens include a walled garden, a rose garden, a rock garden, a reconstructed Turner Conservatory, rare and exotic trees, and woodland trails. The Woodland Trail takes about 25 minutes: it follows the Noble Fir Walk or, alternatively, a longer loop along Monkey Puzzle Avenue back to the formal gardens.
An accessible bus is available on request at Woodstock Gardens, making it easier to reach various areas of the gardens and arboretum. Operating days and hours may vary; check them before your visit.
More Cultural Destinations in County Kilkenny
If you look beyond Inistioge to County Kilkenny, you will find other distinctive cultural destinations. Rothe House in Kilkenny city was built in 1594 as a business premises and family home for John Rothe Fitzpiers. Guided tours with expert guides are available; during opening hours, visitors can also explore the house, courtyards and garden on a self-guided tour.
Jerpoint Cistercian Abbey in Thomastown, County Kilkenny, was founded in the 12th century and is one of the finest examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in Ireland. It is also known for its detailed stone sculptures dating from the 13th to the 16th century. Children can enjoy a treasure hunt at the nearby visitor centre.
Discover more destinations: Gowran, Freshford, Piltown, Kilkenny, Urlingford, Bennettsbridge, The Rower, Thomastown.
For the broader travel overview: County Kilkenny.
